The Design Process:

Since these beams are structural, it was not feasible to replace them.  With the rough texture of the cedar, “refinishing” would have been messy, time consuming and  potentially damaging to the natural appearance.  A painted faux finish offered a cost effective solution with more predictable results.  It also provided an obvious advantage of controlling the tones within the wood.  In every room  we were able to blend  hues to unify the existing elements and compliment the future color scheme.

Artist’s Secret:  When applying any wood grain technique,  the composition of the artistic finish is critical.  I begin by trying to imagine the tree in its original state.  Every brush stroke should magically reveal the  story of its life . . . a year of drought, a season of plenty, a limb that sprouted.  In this case, the rough texture offered many clues.  Each layer of the process is like exposing a hidden treasure of time.  The long wavy grains were enhanced, existing knots were celebrated and then  more embellishments were invented for added interest.

In the end, painting the beams throughout this home  is a reflection of style which honors its dramatic surroundings.  The best compliment is when no one can guess that I was there.   It is always a privilege to be able to mimic the greatest artist of all . . . nature.   It is my gift that I am honored to share.

I welcome your comments . . .

For more transformations visit www.kasswilson.com

How exciting!  An investment was made to upgrade kitchen cabinets from white to wood.  But one piece of the puzzle was missing.  The doors to the pantry and  entry to the garage remained white.  This abruptly interrupted the visual flow of the richness of the new wood cabinetry.  A  gap of white remained as a daunting reminder of the past.

The Design Process:

When remodeling a kitchen it is important to recognize that doors are visually a part of the cabinetry.  One obvious solution is to have them painted to appear as if they are a part of the new wood in the space.  This can be tricky.  They are usually right next to the other cabinets.  It requires a perfect match of both color as well as the grain.  Even if actual wood doors are purchased, it may be a different wood species.  The grain will be different and may not accept the stain the same as the cabinets. An additional challenge is that one of these doors is a simulated wood texture and the other is metal.  Unless it is done well, the end result will be a “near miss”.

A faux finish of  precise graining on doors is an added detail that completes the beautiful and seamless line of exquisite wood cabinetry.  Guests walk right by these doors never noticing that they are a painted finish rather than real wood!  This is yet another example of attending to ALL of the details when upgrading or remodeling.   Do you have plain white doors in your kitchen?   Filling in the blanks is essential to an end result that adds value to your home.

Special thanks to designer, Michelle Nettles , 770 356 5814,  www.mjninteriors.com

For more ideas on how to enhance your home, be sure to visit www.kasswilson.com.

Call me for help with your next project:  770 777 7020

Start by selecting the items that have the most limited options for color, size and/or price.  This is often the main focal point or “grounding” element of a space.  In a large room, it can be an area rug or piece of art.  But, in a kitchen it is usually the granite.  This is your initial inspiration that will drive all decisions about colors, style and where you want your attention to travel.   Next is the tile back splash and the cabinetry.  They will follow  as a backdrop that surrounds these important features.  But, don’t stop there . . .  now comes the challenge!   The basic selections can be wonderful and “go together”.   But it is the added attention to details that will give you an opportunity to enhance all of the beautiful features within a space for a “WOW”.  This is where you can “go the extra mile”.

Faux finishing offers infinite technique and color solutions that will work to unify all of the  elements within a space.  Ideally, this is explored early in the design process.  Teaming up with a talented designer is a great way to create and utilize innovative ideas that you may have never thought about.  Together, we work to identify unique ways to make all of these features come to life.  Developing a complete plan from the beginning allows the freedom to incorporate many great ideas BEFORE construction starts.  Trying to add them later can be very costly, time consuming or even impossible.

The Design Process:

In this scenario, we focused our attention upward.  Imagine how this kitchen would appear if the large ceiling was allowed to remain flat.   Since it is not very high, there is a tendency to believe that leaving it a light color will make it appear taller.  Instead, notice how the addition of  bold trim in the center works to define the space.  It adds balance and interest, draws your eye upward and eliminates the appearance of vast emptiness.  The frame was painted with a faux wood grain technique that matches the cabinets to perfection.   The inset is a softened metallic finish that compliments both the custom tile on the back splash and the light fixtures.

In large kitchens, even the beauty of wood can become overly repetitious.  Adding distressed black on select door fronts and the back of the display cabinets offers an unpredictable but subtle detail.   Notice how it draws attention to the dimension of the doors, outlines the accessories and emphasizes the curved arches in the cabinets.

This kitchen remodel is candy to the eye.   Using multiple but subtle faux finishes allows all of the features to stand out.  There is a delicate and unique balance of details that encourages your eye to glide across the room to appreciate the architecture and accessories.   Going that extra mile gives an unmistakable statement of quality and  design sophistication.

Please take a moment to send us a comment.  OR, call 770 777 7020 for information about where to begin on YOUR next project.

Special thanks to designer, Christine Barnes for this wonderful kitchen remodel  .  .  .   770 241 2302

Visit www.kasswilson.com for more transformations.

A formal parlor is a Southern tradition.  This intimate space is usually located immediately off of the foyer as a place to invite a guest for conversation.  These rooms are filled with attention to detail .   They are embellished with opulent window treatments, beautiful furnishings and personal accessories that welcome a visitor into a home.

The Design Process:

We began with a blank canvas.  Even though the mantel is in the center of the room, it was not intended as the primary focal point.  In this case, it needs to serve as a grounding element but not over power the other furnishings and accessories yet to come.  The goal was to create a cozy and elegant setting suitable for an intimate fireside chat.

A soft faux wood grain technique painted on the mantel adds to the warmth of this space.  Inspiration for color  came from the furnishings in the  adjacent dining room.  For added interest, a burl pattern was incorporated to emphasize and add interest to the horizontal line.  This detail mimics the same wood species found on the doors of the china cabinet and dining table in the adjoining space.  Keeping the tones subtle allows all of the other furnishings to share the attention.  This mantel now compliments the room from every vantage point.  It elegantly blends with the flow of color and style throughout the home.  A crackling fire is all that is needed to complete  the invitation.  So, bring a glass of wine,  sit down and enjoy the comfort of a fireside chat.

Special thanks to Joy McLean Interiors for this design.

404 237 8555 ,   joy@joymcleaninteriors.com

To view more transformations visit, www.kasswilson.com

A vast great room ceiling would be cold and lost without proper attention.  The beautiful details present an opportunity to enhance the architecture within this home.  A combination of finishing techniques draws the eye upward and allows each feature to stand apart.

We started with a blank canvas.  The interior designer presented the fabrics that were chosen for furniture and window treatments.  From this, it was easy to visualize the color story of the home. This room was a central location.  It was open to the foyer, kitchen and stairway. All of the finishes needed to blend and be consistent with the adjacent spaces.  Being so open, this room had very little wall space.  All of the interesting architectural details were in the ceiling.  That became our opportunity to create something special.

The Design Process:

Textured wallpaper was applied inside the coffers.  A pattern was chosen that would be consistent with the scale of the spaces.  Once applied, it was treated with a 3 layer faux finish that incorporated multiple metallics.  This enhanced the  dimension of the raised pattern.  A soft wood graining technique was applied to the beams.  The contrast of dark next to light acts to outline and draw attention to the architecture within the ceiling.

The finishes that adorn the ceiling are consistent with the design of the columns.  This further invites your attention to move upward. By adding color and texture to the architectural details alone, this room takes on an impression of elegance.  The faux finishes make this ceiling rise to the occasion by offering a crowning touch to this regal space.

Special thanks to Laura Bloom of Home Expressions. 678 242 0480  www.homeexpressionsinteriors.com Be sure to visit www.kasswilson.com to view more transformations.

Over time, styles change,  color trends change and the purpose for a space will change.  But one thing that seems to remain the consistent is the timeless beauty of exotic wood and the elegance of traditional craftsmanship.  This project represents the transformation of a space into a sophisticated gathering place that will be enjoyed while relaxing with a glass of fine wine.

The Design Process:

Plans for the future of this area include the addition of a wine cellar.  The theme will be changing to reflect an elegant pub setting.  Look closely at how this designer has skillfully re-directed the color palate and style of this space.

The “visual weight” and “balance” of this room has been shifted with the clever use of color.  Applying a faux finish to the cabinets transformed their harsh white appearance into elegant dark wood hues.  The beauty of a painted wood grain technique creates the illusion of fine crafted flame mahogany.  This outlines and draws attention to the stackstone in the mantel.  The colors were chosen to blend effortlessly with the tones of the fabrics.   A clean lined, neutral sofa acts as a quiet backdrop to all of the other design elements in the room.  As a result,  your attention is drawn upward and flows around the room to embrace the rich colors, tailored patterns and warm textures.

This space now has a new attitude.  It honors the luxury of traditional elements yet remains a relaxed setting for comfortable entertaining.  It is a reflection of a mature and sophisticated design style that will be complimentary to a lovely wine cellar.  Cheers!

Special thanks to Karen Davis of KD Design Studio  770 346 9494  www.karendavisinteriors.com .  Also, be sure to visit www.kasswilson.com to view more transformations.

He wants the richness of wood.  She wants an updated color.  How do you keep everyone happy?  Creating a kitchen that accommodates both personalities requires creative planning.  One solution is to look at how you can incorporate more than one finish in a single space.  During our first meeting, we looked through a large portfolio of cabinet finishes.  Two options were identified as possibilities.  A soft stria glazing in a complementary tone of gold offers a casual yet tailored elegance.  The beauty of wood grain is rich in tradition, but the concern was that it would appear too dark if applied to every surface.  Careful studying of the lines within the cabinetry revealed the answers.  The division became obvious.  Both finishes could be used and a unique kitchen was born!

The Design Process:

In a kitchen, the cabinetry usually covers more than 60% of the wall space.  It can be very repetitious.   We often create drama in a room by adding an accent wall of color.  This same concept can be used on your cabinets.  Utilizing two complementary finishes will add character and give your kitchen a personality all its own.

Look closely at the original kitchen.  The cabinets are perfectly uniform and symmetrical.  They were painted the same color as the walls and lightly glazed.  This offers a quiet sophistication to surround the new focal points. . . the two large towers.  A wood grain technique was applied to give them the illusion of freestanding furniture.  Designing with an odd number of elements is more pleasing to the eye.  So, the island was number three.  The pantry doors were then treated the same as the surrounding cabinets.  This allows your eye to gently float around the room without interruption.

The custom tile on the backsplashes and the front of the counter introduces a dramatic pattern into this space.  Painting the trim around the bar in the same wood grain technique provides an outline of this feature.  It is a finishing detail that helps to emphasize the importance of this design.

This kitchen now offers versatility.  It provides an invitation for warm family gatherings.  But with a few fancy accessories, it is easily dressed up for formal entertaining.  It readily adapts as a pleasing environment that will fit any personality.

To view more cabinetry transformations, visit my website at www.kasswilson.com.

Many times, curved architectural details can be presented at their best when enhanced by decorative finishes.  Archways and ceilings are especially challenging from a construction perspective.  Chances are, anything that is not a straight line will be more labor intensive and therefore, more expensive.  Beautiful curves and arches are often understated when allowed to remain white.  They lack definition and are barely noticed as they blend into the trim.  It is time to dress it up and make it outstanding!

This barrel ceiling was a perfect opportunity to utilize creative faux finish techniques to bring out the finest details of this architecture.  It draws attention to the quality craftsmanship that has been incorporated into the features of this home.   The foyer has been transformed into an intriguing grand entrance with plenty of drama and “curve appeal”.

The Design Process:

For the faux finish on the ceiling, multiple tones of golden metallics were chosen to blend with the elegant fabrics in the adjacent dining room.  On the other side of this foyer is a gentleman’s study.  It is completely lined with intricate judge’s paneling.  The outline of the trim on the barrel ceiling was treated with a wood graining technique to continue the rich wood tones of that room.  You would never guess the trim in the foyer is a decorative paint treatment rather than exquisite stain grade wood.  The artistry of a custom design offers an additional and unexpected embellishment.  Look closely at how consistent it is with the graceful iron work in the doors and stairway.  This outline acts to further emphasize the curves and archways throughout the rest of the home.

This ceiling now showcases the beautiful architectural details that adorn this space.  It welcomes you with a statement of quality the moment you enter.  You are immediately introduced to the soft curves that will gently invite you to relax and enjoy.  The careful attention to every detail gives this home ”curve appeal”.

This project was designed by Joann and Kelly of Kandrac & Kole Interior Designs.  www.kandrac-kole.com To view more decorative painting transformations by Kass Wilson of Wallstreat,  visit www.kasswilson.com.

Multiiple “design tricks” were incorporated to transform this master bath into a place of elegance and intrigue.  The harsh contrast of the black chest next to white cabinetry had not been resolved by simple glazing.

Many times when we look at cabinetry, there is a tendency to apply a finish as if it is one single architectural detail.  In reality, it is a combination of many different surfaces and features.  Each of these is an opportunity to incorporate design elements that will make the craftsmanship stand out.  In this case, we identified the insets of specific doors and the front of the drawers as separate entities.

The Design Process:

Your first impression is that there is a strong line of cabinetry.  The black chest in the middle seems out of place.  Individual door fronts were strategically selected to be painted black.  This helps to unify and “make sense” of the chest of drawers while softening the long horizontal line.  It is much easier for the eye to follow.

The new palate was selected from the tones of the granite countertops.  An embellished design was placed directly below each sink.  This was inspired by the designs in the rug and new window treatments.  It directs you to focus on the center of each side and enhances the symetry of the space.  Notice in the photos how your eye now gently “floats” across the room to take in the visual depth and interest.

The elegance of this master bath was a result of innovative and “strategic planning” with JoAnn and Kelly, the designers at Kandrac-Kole Interiors (www.kandrac-kole.com).

To view more innovative cabinetry projects visit my website at www.kasswilson.com.

An old idea with a new twist was applied to the renovation of this vintage kitchen.  The ceilings were only 8 feet high.  The objective was to create a focal point that would draw the eye downward.  Over the years, new hardwood floors had been installed in the adjacent rooms.  None of them were the same color but this is the point where they would all come together.  The solution was to apply a classic design that would be interesting and visually compatible from all vantage points.

The Design Process:

Designs such as these are challenging since the pattern must be an appropriate scale for the space and also line up geometrically correct.  Equipped with a measuring tape, knee pads and a calculator, one full day was spent making sure the layout was perfect.

This floor began as raw wood.  Five colors of stain were mixed to blend with the adjacent colors of wood flooring in the adjoining rooms.  Specific techniques must be followed to keep the different stains from “bleeding” and make sure each line is crisp.  During the process, no one was allowed on this floor without protective footgear.  Scratches or dirt would not be erasable!  When the design was completed, the flooring specialists returned to apply 3 final layers of polyurethane.  Since each color was carefully matched, only water based products were used to make sure the floor would not yellow over time.